Running into a winged lion shifter was never in Mitch's plans. But Bluebird Valley Preserve has more surprises in store, including wildlife and shifters, most of whom Mitch never knew existed. As a caracal shifter, Mitch is used to oddities. The chaos, he can handle. Calix, the saber-toothed cat, is what knocks him off balance.<br><br>Calix is a vet and a physician. Great in theory ... except he can only diagnose, not heal. Still grieving, he vows to protect his heart from another crushing blow. Then, he saves a caracal shifter from the flood waters. When he sees Mitch, he struggles with leaving the past behind and making a future for himself which includes Mitch.<br><br>Raging waters and mudslides threaten, leaving the whole preserve at risk. Mitch puts his life on the line to rescue Calix. But, it's Calix's heart Mitch finds the most challenging and worthwhile to win.

Mitch

He lifted his gaze to meet Mitch’s, found a small smile on his lips, and that plate held out once again.


“Thanks.” He took it, set it down, before accepting the dishes passed to him one at a time.


Idly, he realized he’d been looking forward to this. To sharing. To be a part of something. To not spend another night alone in his cabin, eating a cold sandwich. Despite knowing what craziness might transpire at any given time, he was up to the task. Mitch anchored everyone living there, making it more than just a roof over their heads to keep the rain out. He made the place a home.


Something Calix hadn’t had in a good long time. And he’d unknowingly missed it.13


Bark. BarkBark.The little fennec fox dashed under the coffee table, quickly followed by the prairie dog. A game of chase had evolved a few minutes ago, turning the living room into a race course, filled with obstacles.


Chapter 48